There’s quite a controversy raging around the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy usage in the home as an alternative energy source. Some feel they are one of the least cost-effective ways of tackling climate change and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in the UK have gone so far as to say it will take 100 years to pay back the cost of their installation.
Their view is that roof panels as an energy source for heating water and generating power are unlikely to save enough from energy bills to make them financially viable in a home owner’s lifetime. Better alternatives, it is argued are loft and cavity wall insulation, replacing draughty windows and using energy efficient light bulbs.
However, the costs of solar energy may be reduced as products improve and already are, relatively, cheaper since gas, electricity and oil prices have risen so much lately. Also, many governments offer subsidies for using alternative power.
Whatever, the truth it still remains that there is a lot that we can do on a daily basis to cut down on energy usage. Turning off lights, taking appliances off stand-by and turning of mobile phone rechargers all make a positive contribution.